1) What is absolutism?

Absolutism is the theory, which the monarch rules a centralized state with absolute sovereignty.

2) Explain the justification for absolutism referred to as the 'divine right of kings'.

An authority given to monarchs directly by God, is referred as the 'divine rights of kings'.

3) List the causes of the rise of Absolutism in Europe.

- 15th-century mercantile policies, which produced unimaginable wealth
- Papal influence had weakened in many states
- The Protestant Reformation contributed to absolutism
- Hobbes wrote, "Absolute monarchy was the only system of government capable of maintaining order among the unruly masses."

4) In your opinion, is absolutism a good way to rule? Can you think of a situation where it might be a positive thing?

I think absolutism is a bad way to rule a country, because having one person hold all powers is a dangerous thing to do. They monarch doesn't apply to any laws, which means he can do anything he wants. I cannot think of a situation where absolutism can be a positive thing. In my opinion, I think absolutism is just bad, and should not be used to rule.